Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger proposes to eliminate funding for college preparation programs for disadvantaged students from schools where college-going rates are below state average.

Ending the $33.1 million University of California program and $52 million California State University program creates new barriers for promising students hoping to get a college education.

These programs, already cut by 30 percent in the last two years, develop university partnerships with some of the state’s lowest-performing schools. UC and CSU school partnerships help these students get academic and study skills. They offer advising, preparation for college entrance exams and mentoring students need to achieve their potential. Results show that these programs successfully increase the number of disadvantaged students eligible to attend UC or CSU.

Could these programs operate more efficiently? Sure. So use a scalpel, not an ax. These college prep partnerships reach students from communities where college-going rates are historically low. Education is the key to helping these kids become successful, taxpaying adults. Clearly, these programs more than pay for themselves in the long run.